Computer Classes Offered at the Library

As new technologies, software, and popular social networking websites are expanding, the need for basic and advanced instructions to library users has increased. In response to this need, the San Mateo County Library is offering a series of computer classes at most community libraries.

Classes are designed to assist the public in using the new features of the eBranch (smcl.org) and promote the library’s online resources, collections and print materials. Additional classes range from computer basics to online job searching. Other popular classes include how to successfully use eBay, Facebook, and Twitter and how to use more sophisticated software, such as Skype (online video conferencing) and Picnik (online photo editing). Several libraries also offer computer classes in Chinese and Spanish. Check out the full list of SMCL computer classes.

Library Participates in SMC Works Program

In February 2010, the County of San Mateo launched a subsidized employment program utilizing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds. This new program, SMC Works, provides qualified parents with temporary employment opportunities within County Departments and promotes the recovery of the local economy.

Eligible applicants are San Mateo County residents who are living below 200% of the poverty level and have at least one child. The SMC Works program will subsidize 100% of wages, and participating Departments will provide in-kind training and/or supervision equal to or greater than 25% of the subsidized amount.

SMCL is excited to participate in this program and is currently recruiting for 13 positions with a variety of duties, including assisting with the Summer Reading program, supporting publicity efforts, and tutoring adults in the READS program.

Community Leader Award

Congratulations to Barbara Amberg who was honored on May 22nd as a Pacifica community leader. Pacifica Community Television (PCT26) annually hosts a “Night of the Stars” to honor local movers and shakers that have contributed to the community. This year they honored Children’s Librarian Barbara Amberg for her 19 years at the Pacifica-Sanchez Library, engaging and educating the children of Pacifica. The Library is very fortunate to have Barbara Amberg as one of our outstanding employees.

Digital Storytelling Project

In July 2009, the Library received a grant from the California State Library for the digital storytelling project “California of the Past”. Considered a highly competitive award, SMCL won with its compelling description of a project entitled “Pacifica and Coastside Stories”, which focuses on stories from individuals residing in Pacifica, Half Moon Bay and the unincorporated communities on the coast.

Partnering with the Pacifica Historical Society, Senior Coastsiders and Puente de la Costa Sur, staff has worked to record and preserve unique memories of our Coastal communities for future generations, weaving together voice, video, personal photographs and images, documents and music to make a lasting testimony of a moment in history. The Digital Storytelling Project gives community members an opportunity to spotlight something important from their life in the context of California history. These stories also become part of an expanding digital local history collection that will be available for future generations to see and hear. All of the California stories from libraries all over the state are uploaded and archived on the project’s website.